Plant and Soils Section on revegetation of Alaskan coal mine spoils. Final report

Revegetation, such as grass seeding is the most effective method of erosion control on mine spoils or disturbed sites. However, the success of revegetation is dependent on other erosion control practices. Quite often, they are reciprocal or interrelated. Their relationships are summarized as follows: rocking and furrowing- such practices will create microrelief which is more effective in erosion control, and will create a microclimate which favors vegetation establishment. A good example of this practice is observed on the Gold Run pass site where deep furrows were ripped in the surface. Mulching: mulching will protect the surface from both wind and water erosion, and will create favorable moisture conditions for vegetation establishment. Materials that can be used for mulching include organic debris, chips, coal particles, and fine pebbles. The soil formation on spoil at the Vitro site is an example of mulching effect. Gravel mulching is effective in erosion control, but also has a sterilizing effect on the soil or spoils, therefore it should only be used as a last resort, in places such as banks or slopes with very strong wind abrasion. It is demonstrated that benching and landscaping of the spoil banks will greatly reduce erosion caused by themore » length and steepnes of the slopes.« less